6 Most Common Cat Health Problems

Cats are good at self-maintenance, but even your fastidious feline can't
prevent some of the more common cat diseases and health issues. To help you
care for kitty, here's a brief overview of six of the most common cat health
problems.

Common Cat Health Problem: Vomiting

Vomiting is a very common cat health problem, with causes ranging from
eating something poisonous or inedible (like string), to infection, urinary
tract disease, or diabetes.

Symptoms are usually obvious, and include drooling and abdominal heaving.
Vomiting can quickly leave your cat dehydrated, so if kitty continues vomiting
or acts ill, call your vet right away. And, because it's hard for a pet owner
to tell the difference between vomiting and regurgitation, collect a sample of
your cat's vomit and take it with you to the vet.

About 10% of cats brought to the vet have feline lower urinary tract disease
(FLUTD), which is actually a group of feline diseases with multiple causes.

Female and male cats can get FLUTD, and it often occurs in cats that are
overweight, unfit, or who eat dry food. Stress, a multi-cat household, and
sudden changes can all raise a cat's risk of FLUTD, and treatment depends on
the type of FLUTD your cat has. FLUTD symptoms include: